Introduction: Welcoming the Stranger

Jonathan G. Silin introduces the 17th issue of Occasional Papers with the concept of strangers - people of all ages who perceive themselves or have been perceived by others as outsiders. The ability to welcome the stranger - or groups of strangers - into the classroom is essential to building a productive, caring community of learners. This philosophy sets the tone for the following essays that illustrate the importance of creating a healthy learning environment for immigrants